Viking Financial Services Ltd, the entity that manages travel protection for Viking, has filed a lawsuit against Arch Insurance Group in the Circuit Court of Jackson County, MO. The lawsuit arises from Arch’s failure to fulfill its financial obligations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
When canceling cruises due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Viking immediately offered compensation for impacted guests, including compensation for any travel protection premiums collected on canceled cruises. Viking never questioned this decision, as as according to the company guest satisfaction is a priority for them. However, Viking’s expectation was that Arch would provide reimbursement for the travel protection premiums refunded to guests, as Arch no longer faced any travel risk following the cancelations. Now more than three years later, Arch has failed to fulfill its financial obligations.
“The safety and satisfaction of guests has always been Viking’s primary concern, particularly during times of crisis,” affirmed Ryan Rakower, an attorney at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP who represents Viking in this matter. “Viking is deeply disappointed and frustrated by Arch’s blatant disregard for its financial obligations to Viking, which starkly contradicts the company’s steadfast guest-centric values. By refusing to refund Viking the unearned travel protection premiums, Arch has indirectly profited from Viking’s decision to prioritize guest satisfaction by immediately issuing compensation to guests in the early stages of the pandemic.”
The impact of Arch’s refusal to meet its financial obligations is staggering. Viking has issued compensation for travel protection premiums in excess of $3 million.
Despite Viking’s disappointment in Arch’s inaction to date and its decision to file this lawsuit, Viking remains steadfast in its commitment to its guests and employees.
“While this lawsuit has no impact on Viking’s ongoing operations, the company has always said it will do what is right for its guests and employees. Viking expects the same commitment from its partners, including Arch,” said Rakower.
Trip Mate, Viking’s insurance partner, is joining Viking Financial Services Ltd in the suit against Arch Insurance Group.
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